North Shore Brass manager John Sullivan confirmed that the signing of British soprano player Martin Britt and Australian euphonium player Matthew van Emmerik completes the North Shore Brass line-up, making the band battle ready for the NZ National Brass Band Championships in Christchurch this July.

Martin Britts availability following Desfords' All England Masters win is a real bonus..John Sullivan, Band Manager

John said: “We have a solid base and the inclusion of two international stars really gives the band a lift. The test piece Ballet For Band is an enjoyable chart and it gives a real musical opportunity to tell a great story on the stage.”

"Martin Britts availability following Desfords' All England Masters win is a real bonus as he brings style and grace to the soprano seat. Then to be able to add a Euphonium player of Matthew van Emmerik's class in the mix is outstanding."

Musical Director Brent Large agreed: “We now have a great set of "corner men" to lead the band and this gives a strong artistic lead in the ballet. Vaughan McDonald on the principal cornet seat provides a rock on that corner and the recent signing of Dave Wright on Trombone anchors the other side of the band."

North Shore have put together a strong line up right through the band with the cornet section benefiting from the signings of Kurt McDonald (ex Dalewool), Mark Fitzpatrick,(Principal trumpet APO) and the return of the former principal cornet Keith Patey. Keith taking the all important role of holding the back row together.

The principal seat line up for Christchurch contest is:
Principal Cornet: Vaughan McDonald
Soprano Cornet: Martin Britt
Flugel Horn: Kate Wright
Solo Horn: Carol Goss
Baritone: Rebecca Lewis
Euphonium: Robert Simpson
Solo Trombone: Dave Wright
Eb Bass: Dennis Spurdle
BBb Bass: John Mann

John Sullivan concluded: "The band is really looking forward to the preparation and performance of the test and own choice, it is a great start to have such a solid set of soloists in the key seats."